New possibilities in erythrocyte survival studies with the application of a Well-type germanium semiconductor...

The application of a Well-type germanium semiconductor detector creates new possibilities in erythrocyte survival studies. Using 51Cr, the effective dose equivalent in a standard procedure can be reduced from approximately 780 to 2 microSv. The properties of the detector, namely, high efficiency and high energy resolution, also enable the application of two or even more radionuclides within one individual. This is demonstrated by some experiments utilizing a novel dual-label technique with 57Co tropolonate and 58Co tropolonate. Although this new dual-label technique needs further investigation, it underlines the potential possibilities of studying certain unanswered but clinically relevant questions in the field of transfusion medicine with the application of a Well-type germanium semiconductor detector.